Diamond Peel Versus Crystal Microderm Abrasion

Of the three microdermabrasion treatments I've had done over the last years, the third one was with a diamond tip machine (the spa was running a special promotion). Crystal-free microdermabrsion (aka diamond peeling) was virtually unknown when I had my first facial microderm abrasion, but I see that more and more spas and medical clinics now prefer it over the regular crystal machines.

Basically, the crystals are replaced by microbrasion wands with diamond tips (either natural or synthetic). Diamond is actually four times harder than corundum crystals so, I asked myself, how can something this hard be used on your face? And if it is safe, are diamonds better than aluminum oxide or sodium bicarbonate micro-crystals?

Most doctors agree that aluminum oxide is not dangerous when ingested and is safe for use with skin resurfacing treatments (specifically microderm abrasion) but there is a great deal of controversy in the medical community about its side effects. But there is another factor to consider.

Companies producing and selling microderm abrasion machines and kits are in a constant struggle to win market share in the increasingly competitive skin rejuvenation industry. They have to be proactive and set new trends in order to increase their profits.

For the sake of both perceived safety and effectiveness, crystal micro dermabrasion machines (with aluminum oxide or sodium bicarbonate crystals) are slowly being phased out and replaced with diamond micro dermabration machines.

Companies make great efforts to prove that diamond peeling is safer for us, patients and easier to use for doctors. But diamond tips can, in theory, cause skin damage because they are that much harder (there is no evidence to back up these claims, though).

What Is The Difference Between Crystal And Diamond Micro Abrasion?

The regular crystal micro dermabrasion technology involves the use of a special, hand-held device that propels a high-speed flow of aluminum oxide crystals onto the skin. At the same time, the machine's vacuum system sucks away dirt, dead cells and used crystals.

The diamond derm abrasion system, on the other hand, replaces the micro-crystal flow with a disposable or reusable diamond tip wand. Areas closer to the eyes and mouth can be abraded more accurately with diamond abrasion (no risk of stray crystals causing damage or being ingested). Other than that, crystal-free microdermabration works in the same way traditional microabrasion does.

Diamond microderm machines usually come with tipped wands of varied size and coarseness for different skin types and depths of resurfacing. The wand tip is made of natural diamond chips which polish the skin and remove dead cells, which are then vacuumed back into a waste filter. Many professionals prefer natural diamond tips because they are easier to control and don't irritate the skin (natural minerals are less likely to trigger adverse reactions).

Microdermabrasion Crystals

Aluminum oxide crystals have been the most commonly used abrasive agent for the last 20 years (no wonder they were so popular in microdermabrasion). Aluminum oxide is the second hardest mineral (diamonds are first).

The irregular crystal shape makes them a more effective abrader. Aluminum oxide is also an inert material and it causes no allergic or adverse reactions. It is not toxic when ingested and is non-carcinogenic.

Sodium bicarbonate crystals are an organic alternative to aluminum oxide crystals but they are a lot softer and less effective in microderma abrasion. They are used on patients with hyperpigmentation and can be easily washed off after treatment (sodium bicarbonate is water-soluble).

Diamond Microdermabrasion (Crystal-Free)

Crystal-free tips and natural diamond tips are easier to use and unlikely to leave tiny particles in the eyes, nose or mouth. But a crystal-free micro dermabrasion machine isn't completely safe.

Bacteria from exfoliated skin stays on the tip and can be unknowingly spread to another areas of the face or body. Diamond tip microdermabrasion is also not as effective on irregular surfaces because there are no crystals to fit the exact irregularities of the skin.

Which To Choose? Regular Microderm Abrasion Or Diamond Tip Peeling

Both are just as effective, from what I could tell, and the price is similar (between $75 and $200 per abrasion). Diamond microdermabrasion needs a more significant, upfront investment but it doesn't use a fresh supply of crystals after every treatment, which is why spas and surgeries can offer it at a similar price.

I suppose the only real reason to consider a diamond peel instead of the regular micodermabrasion is the lack of stray crystals. After having tried both diamond tipped micro dermabrasion and the regular kind, I believe the choice is a matter of personal preference. I cannot say whether diamond microderm was more effective than the regular microdemabrasion (a microscope would probably favor one over the other) but I was equally happy with the results.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Micro Dermabrasion Dangerous If I Have African American Skin?

A: Office microdermibrasion machine is appropriate for all skin colors (including African American skin ) because this procedure sandblasts only the outermost skin layer which is made of dead skin cells. There's no damage to live tissue which could cause scarring or severe irritation. The exfoliation process involved in office microdermabasion helps the skin renew itself quicker and more effectively.

Q: Does Microdermbrasion Make Sun Spots Go Away?

A: Microdermasion machine removes the outermost layer of the skin by sandblasting it with a jet of micro crystals. During the procedure, part of the pigment is physically eliminated and, at the same time, collagen production is stimulated so that your skin regains its density and elasticity. After 6 to 12 microdermabrastion treatments, smaller sun spots are entirely removed while larger ones fade significantly.

Q: Can You See A Difference After The First Micro Dermabration?

A: Yes, results are visible after the first microdermabra. especially if we are talking about office microdermal abrasion which is more effective than at-home sets. Best results are obtained after 6 to 12 sessions (depending on your expectations and severity of skin imperfections), respectively one month of use for one of the home micro dermabration kit.

Q: How Deep Can Microbrasion Go?

A: Micro derma brasion abrades the outer layer of the skin (about 10-20 microns of skin cells). This layer is only made of dead skin cells which is why this procedure is not considered to be invasive.

Q: What Happens To Your Skin After Microderma?

A: First, clean your face immediately with a wet microdermabrasia cloth and hydrating toner to remove micro crystals residue and dead skin cells. Once the skin has dried completely, apply a rich moisturizer across the treated area. Continue to apply the moisturizer for 4-6 days to protect your face from excessive exfoliation. Don't leave the house without applying a generous amount of sunscreen. If you want to speed up the recovery process, you can use copper based lotions (to heal the skin), Vitamin A, C and E formulas (to increase skin elasticity) and thermal water absorbing cloths (to calm down any swellings or itchiness).

Q: How Can Micro Dermabrasion Help Restore Skin Complexion?

A: This procedure exfoliates the top layer of skin which consists of dead skin cells. Micro dermal abrasion set stimulates collagen production, essential to healthy skin and also evens out skin texture and tone.

Q: How Good Is Microabrasion On Your Feet?

A: OTC derma microabrasion systems can be used on your feet as long as it's especially formulated as a body microderm abrasion tool. Using a face microdermabration set on your feet will not have the desired result because it's much too mild to have a significant effect on your feet. Office microabrasions is not suitable for use on the feet because the skin is too thin in that area. However, having microabrasion on your heels should work but better ask your doctor first.

Q: Can You Go To Work After Micro Derm Abrasion?

A: Yes, you can return to work immediately after having microdermabration. The mild redness on your skin will disappear in a few hours.

Q: Is Micro Abrasion Effective For Men?

A: Men can use microdermabrasian just as women can. The procedure and results are the same, there are no side effects or risks. The procedure and results are the same, there are no side effects or risks.

Q: Microderm Is It Good For Acne Scarring?

A: By removing the top layer of the skin, professional micro abrasion diminishes or even removes superficial acne scarring. Deeper acne scarring require a more invasive procedure, like a deep chemical peel or laser skin resurfacing.